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Online nowThe Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp is an 18-day trekking package that combines the classic Annapurna Circuit with the beautiful Annapurna Sanctuary route. It is a great option for trekkers who want to explore the different landscapes, cultures, and mountain scenery of the Annapurna region in one journey.
The first part of the trek follows the Annapurna Circuit. Starting with a drive from Kathmandu to Chame, the trail passes through beautiful mountain villages such as Upper Pisang, Ghyaru, Ngawal, and Manang. As you move higher, the scenery gradually changes from green hills and forests to dry landscapes surrounded by snow-covered mountains.
With Manang being a place to acclimatize, the trail continues to Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi before reaching the famous Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres. After crossing this high mountain pass, you descend towards Muktinath, an important religious destination for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims.
The journey then continues towards Tatopani and Ghorepani from where you will hike to Poon Hill early in the morning to enjoy panoramic sunrise views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges. The trail then leads through beautiful villages and forests towards Chhomrong and the Annapurna Sanctuary.
The final major destination of this trek is Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres which is surrounded by impressive Himalayan peaks. After enjoying the sunrise and mountain views from Base Camp you will descend through the same sanctuary route towards Bamboo and Jhinu Danda before driving to Pokhara and returning to Kathmandu.
Your adventure begins when you arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. After completing the arrival formalities, a representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.
Once you reach the hotel, you can rest after your journey and take some time to explore the surrounding area if you feel comfortable. Kathmandu is a lively city with traditional temples, busy markets, restaurants and historical sites.
Later, you will meet your trekking guide and discuss the journey, including the itinerary, trekking equipment, permits and other important arrangements. Your guide will also check your trekking gear to make sure you have everything required for the high-altitude journey.
Next day, after breakfast, you will begin your journey towards Chame, the administrative headquarters of Manang District. The drive follows the Prithvi Highway before continuing towards Besisahar, where the road enters the Annapurna region.
As you travel beyond Besisahar, you will notice a gradual change in the surroundings. The road follows the Marsyangdi River, passing through small settlements, green hills, waterfalls and terraced fields. You will also get your first glimpses of the mountain landscape.
The road beyond Besisahar is rough in several sections, so the journey can be bumpy and tiring. Depending on road conditions, traffic and weather, the drive may take around 8–10 hours or longer.
By the evening, you will reach Chame, where you can rest and prepare for the first trekking day.
After breakfast, you will begin trekking from Chame towards Upper Pisang. This is your first proper walking day, and the trail gradually introduces you to the beautiful mountain scenery of the Annapurna region.
The route passes through forests, small villages and rocky sections along the Marsyangdi River. You will cross suspension bridges and walk through narrow valleys surrounded by high mountain cliffs.
One of the interesting sections along the way is the area around Paungda Danda, a huge curved rock face that rises dramatically above the valley. It is one of the memorable natural features of this part of the Annapurna Circuit.
As you approach Pisang, the landscape becomes more open, offering beautiful views of Annapurna II and the surrounding peaks. You will continue towards Upper Pisang, which is known for its traditional houses and peaceful mountain atmosphere.
Today’s route is one of the most scenic sections of the Annapurna Circuit. Instead of following the lower trail, you will take the upper route through Ghyaru and Ngawal, which offers excellent views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains.
The trail climbs gradually from Upper Pisang towards Ghyaru. Although the uphill section can be tiring, the views of Annapurna II, Annapurna III and other snow-covered peaks make the effort worthwhile.
After exploring Ghyaru, you will continue towards Ngawal, another traditional village with stone houses, small monasteries and beautiful mountain surroundings. The village provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the local lifestyle of the Manang region.
From Ngawal, the trail gradually descends towards the Manang Valley. You will pass through dry mountain landscapes and small settlements before reaching Manang. After 6 to 7 hours of walking you will reach Manang, an important stop on the trek because you will spend the following day here for acclimatization before moving towards higher elevations.
Today is an important rest and acclimatization day. As you have already crossed 3,000 metres, your body needs time to adjust to the lower oxygen levels before continuing towards higher elevations.
Although this is called a rest day, it is better to do some light walking rather than staying inside your teahouse all day. You can explore Manang village, visit nearby viewpoints or take a short hike towards Gangapurna Lake.
Avoid strenuous activities and give your body enough time to recover. Drink plenty of fluids, eat proper meals and pay attention to any symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea or unusual tiredness.
Remember that acclimatization is not something to rush. Feeling healthy at this altitude does not guarantee that you will not experience altitude sickness later.
After your acclimatization day, you will continue towards Yak Kharka. The trail gradually climbs out of Manang and enters a more open mountain landscape.
As you leave the village, you will notice fewer trees and more dry hillsides, rocky slopes and wide mountain views. The vegetation becomes thinner as the altitude increases.
You will pass through small settlements and grazing areas where yaks and other animals can sometimes be seen. The trail involves gradual uphill sections, so walking slowly and maintaining a comfortable pace is important.
After 3 to 4 hours of walking you will reach Yak Kharka, a small mountain settlement where trekkers usually stop for the night before continuing towards Thorong Phedi. The surroundings here are peaceful, with beautiful views of the Annapurna mountain range.
Since you are now sleeping above 4,000 metres, it is important to stay warm, eat properly and avoid unnecessary physical activity.
Today, you will continue towards Thorong Phedi, the final major stopping point before crossing Thorong La Pass. The trail gradually climbs through rocky mountain terrain and follows narrow paths along the hillside. You may need to cross small streams and suspension bridges along the way.
Although the walking distance is not particularly long, the increasing altitude makes the journey more demanding. Take regular breaks, walk slowly and avoid rushing to reach the destination. After about 3 to 4 hours of walking you will reach Thorong Phedi, a small settlement located beneath Thorong La Pass.
After reaching the teahouse, your guide will discuss the next day’s plan, check the weather conditions and explain what time you should start. It is also a good time to prepare your warm clothing, headlamp, water and snacks.
This is one of the most challenging and memorable days of the entire journey. You will start early in the morning to cross Thorong La Pass, the highest point of the Annapurna Circuit, at 5,416 metres.
The trail climbs steadily from Thorong Phedi towards the pass. Because of the high altitude, cold temperatures and steep sections, walking can feel difficult even for physically fit trekkers.
You should follow your guide’s instructions and maintain a slow, steady pace. The early start is important because weather conditions at the pass can change quickly, and strong winds may develop later in the day.
After several hours of climbing, you will reach Thorong La Pass. Colourful prayer flags mark the pass, and you can enjoy impressive views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. Take some photographs and spend a short time enjoying the achievement before beginning the descent.
From the pass, the trail descends towards Muktinath. This downhill section is long and can be tiring for your knees, especially after the challenging climb.
Muktinath is an important religious destination for both Hindus and Buddhists. After reaching the village, you can rest and recover from the long day.
Approximate walking time: 7–9 hours, sometimes longer depending on conditions.
After breakfast, you will travel from Muktinath towards Tatopani by local bus or jeep. The road passes through Jomsom and follows the Kali Gandaki Valley, offering views of dry mountain landscapes, traditional settlements and river valleys.
As you descend towards Tatopani, the surroundings gradually become greener and warmer. Tatopani is known for its natural hot springs, which are popular among trekkers looking to relax after a long mountain journey.
However, according to the planned itinerary, you will not stay overnight in Tatopani. Instead, after reaching Tatopani, you will begin the uphill trek towards Ghorepani.
The trail passes through traditional villages, terraced fields and forested hillsides. You will gain considerable elevation as you climb towards Ghorepani, so this section can be physically demanding.
Important: This is an exceptionally long day because it combines several hours of road travel with a substantial uphill trek. Depending on transport timing and trail conditions, completing both sections in one day may be difficult. It is important to confirm the arrangement with your trekking company before starting the journey.
For a more comfortable schedule, consider staying overnight in Tatopani and adding another day to reach Ghorepani through villages such as Ghara and Shikha.
Overnight: Teahouse in Ghorepani, if the planned combined journey is completed.
Today, you will wake up early in the morning for a hike to Poon Hill, one of the most popular viewpoints in the Annapurna region.
The hike usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour from Ghorepani, depending on your walking pace. You will climb a series of stone steps before reaching the viewpoint at approximately 3,210 metres.
From Poon Hill, you can enjoy a beautiful sunrise over the Himalayan mountains. The surrounding peaks, including Dhaulagiri, Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre, gradually become visible as the first sunlight reaches their snow-covered slopes.
After enjoying the views and taking photographs, you will return to Ghorepani for breakfast.
You will then continue towards Tadapani. The trail passes through beautiful rhododendron forests, stone staircases and small settlements. During spring, the forests become especially colourful when the rhododendron flowers bloom.
By the afternoon, you will reach Tadapani, a peaceful village surrounded by forest and mountain scenery.
After breakfast, you will leave Tadapani and continue towards Chhomrong. Today’s trail passes through forested hills, traditional villages and terraced farmland.
The first section involves descending through beautiful rhododendron and oak forests. You will pass small settlements and enjoy occasional views of the surrounding mountains.
As you continue, the trail moves through the hills and eventually reaches Chhomrong. This village is an important stop on the Annapurna Base Camp route and is known for its beautiful location beneath Annapurna South and Machhapuchhre.
Chhomrong is also one of the last larger villages before entering the Annapurna Sanctuary. You will find several teahouses, small shops and places to rest.
Take some time to enjoy the mountain views and prepare for the next section of the journey, which follows the Modi Khola Valley.
Today’s journey takes you deeper into the Annapurna Sanctuary. After breakfast, you will descend from Chhomrong towards the Chhomrong Khola and cross a suspension bridge.
From there, the trail climbs towards Sinuwa before continuing through forests and narrow mountain paths.
You will pass through bamboo forests and small settlements along the Modi Khola Valley. The surroundings become increasingly green and peaceful, with the sound of flowing rivers and waterfalls accompanying much of the walk.
The trail includes several uphill and downhill sections, so you should take your time and maintain a steady pace.
Eventually, you will reach Dovan, a small settlement surrounded by dense forest. It is a common overnight stop for trekkers heading towards Deurali and Annapurna Base Camp.
After breakfast, you will continue towards Deurali. The trail follows the Modi Khola Valley and gradually climbs through forests, rocky paths and beautiful mountain surroundings.
Along the way, you will pass areas such as Himalaya and Hinku Cave, depending on the exact trail conditions and route followed.
As you gain altitude, the forest gradually becomes thinner and the landscape starts to look more alpine. You may notice waterfalls flowing down the surrounding cliffs and impressive views of the mountains.
Deurali is an important overnight stop before reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp and Annapurna Base Camp.
Because you are approaching 3,500 metres, it is important to walk slowly and stay hydrated. Your guide will also check the weather and trail conditions before continuing towards the higher sections.
Today is another major highlight of your trekking journey as you make your way towards Annapurna Base Camp.
After breakfast, you will leave Deurali and continue along the mountain trail towards Machhapuchhre Base Camp (MBC), located at approximately 3,700 metres.
The route gradually opens into a wider alpine landscape, offering impressive views of the surrounding mountains. You will walk through rocky terrain and open valleys as you move closer to the Annapurna Sanctuary.
After reaching Machhapuchhre Base Camp, you can take a short break and enjoy the views of Machhapuchhre, also known as Fishtail Mountain. From here, the trail continues towards Annapurna Base Camp.
The final section offers a spectacular mountain experience. As you approach ABC, you will be surrounded by enormous Himalayan peaks, including Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Hiunchuli and Machhapuchhre.
Annapurna Base Camp sits at approximately 4,130 metres and is one of the most memorable destinations of the journey. The wide mountain amphitheatre creates an incredible setting for photography and enjoying the natural surroundings.
After reaching the base camp, you can explore the area and enjoy the mountain views, depending on the weather and your physical condition.
Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise at Annapurna Base Camp. The first sunlight gradually touches the surrounding snow-covered peaks, creating a beautiful view of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
This is a wonderful opportunity to take photographs and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere before breakfast.
After breakfast, you will begin descending towards Bamboo. The route follows the same trail through Machhapuchhre Base Camp, Deurali, Himalaya and Dovan.
Although descending is generally easier than climbing at high altitude, the long downhill journey can put pressure on your knees and legs. Walking carefully and using trekking poles can make the descent more comfortable.
As you lose altitude, the air becomes warmer and the vegetation gradually becomes greener. By the time you reach Bamboo, you will be back among the forested sections of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
After breakfast, you will continue descending from Bamboo towards Jhinu Danda.
The trail passes through forests, small settlements and several stone staircases. You will retrace part of the route through Sinuwa and Chhomrong before continuing towards Jhinu Danda.
Although the route mainly involves descending, there are also some uphill sections. Take regular breaks and enjoy the final walking sections of the Annapurna Sanctuary.
Jhinu Danda is well known for its natural hot springs, located near the Modi Khola River. If time and conditions allow, you can visit the hot springs and relax after several days of trekking.
It is a pleasant place to spend your final night in the mountains before returning to Pokhara.
Today, you will leave the trekking trail and return to Pokhara.
After breakfast, you will walk towards the available roadhead near Jhinu Danda, where you will meet your arranged jeep or local vehicle. Depending on the road conditions and transport arrangements, the transfer may take several hours.
The drive takes you through green hills, terraced fields and small villages before reaching Pokhara.
After arriving in the city, you can check into your hotel and enjoy some free time. Pokhara offers a relaxing atmosphere after the long mountain journey, with beautiful views of Phewa Lake and the surrounding hills.
You can spend the evening exploring Lakeside, enjoying local restaurants or simply resting at your hotel.
After breakfast, you will begin your return journey from Pokhara to Kathmandu.
The drive follows the Prithvi Highway and passes through green hills, river valleys, small towns and beautiful countryside. Depending on traffic, road conditions and the type of vehicle, the journey generally takes around 6–8 hours, but delays are possible.
After arriving in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel. This marks the end of your Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp adventure.
You can spend the evening relaxing, shopping for souvenirs or enjoying a farewell dinner to celebrate completing the journey.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu or departure according to your travel arrangements.
The Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp is considered a challenging trek because of its long duration, high altitude, changing landscapes and several demanding walking days. Although the route does not require technical climbing skills, trekkers need good physical fitness, stamina and proper preparation.
One of the main challenges is crossing Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres. At this elevation, the oxygen level is significantly lower than at sea level, making even simple physical activities feel more difficult. The climb from Thorong Phedi to the pass is steep in sections and usually requires an early morning start.
Another challenging part is the gradual increase in altitude. You will move from Kathmandu at approximately 1,400 metres to elevations above 5,000 metres within the first eight days. This makes proper acclimatization extremely important.
The Annapurna Base Camp section also requires physical effort. The trail includes long stone staircases, uphill sections, forest paths, rocky terrain and downhill stretches. The descent from Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo can be especially tiring because of the distance.
Day 9 is another demanding part of this itinerary. Travelling from Muktinath to Tatopani and then trekking uphill to Ghorepani in one day involves a long combination of road travel and walking. Trekkers should discuss this schedule with their guide and consider adding an extra day.
What makes this trek challenging?
You do not need to be a professional athlete to complete this journey, but regular physical preparation is important. Start training at least 6–8 weeks before the trek, if possible.
Walking, hiking, cycling, jogging and stair climbing can help improve your stamina. You should also practise walking with a backpack so that your body becomes comfortable carrying trekking equipment.
Strengthening your legs, knees and core muscles can also make uphill and downhill walking easier.
Most importantly, do not rush during the trek. Follow your guide’s instructions, take regular breaks and give your body enough time to adjust to the altitude.
Before starting the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp, trekkers need to arrange the required entry permits for the Annapurna Conservation Area.
Since both the Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp routes pass through the Annapurna Conservation Area, the main permit required is the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP).
The ACAP permit is required for entering and trekking within the Annapurna Conservation Area. It helps support conservation activities, environmental protection, local communities and tourism management in the region.
The Nepal Tourism Board’s revised TIMS provisions include both the Annapurna Circuit Trek and the Poon Hill–ABC Trek among routes requiring a licensed trekking guide and an agency-issued TIMS card. Your registered trekking agency should confirm the applicable requirements and arrange the card before departure.
You can arrange the permits through a government-registered trekking agency. The agency can help prepare the necessary documents and complete the application process.
The documents generally required include:
The ACAP permit can also be obtained through the official NTNC online permit portal: NTNC Online Permit System.
Keep your permits safe throughout the journey because they may be checked at different checkpoints. The official permit portal also states that entry permits are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Transportation is an important part of the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp because the journey includes several road transfers before, during and after the trekking sections.
The trek starts with a drive from Kathmandu to Chame and finishes with a return drive from Pokhara to Kathmandu. You will also use local transport between Muktinath and Tatopani and between Jhinu Danda and Pokhara.
Here is how transportation is arranged throughout the journey.
On Day 2, you will travel from Kathmandu to Chame by jeep or another suitable vehicle. The journey passes through Besisahar and follows the mountain roads along the Marsyangdi River.
The road beyond Besisahar can be rough and narrow in some sections. A local four-wheel-drive jeep is generally a practical option because it is better suited to the mountain road conditions.
On Day 9, you will take a local bus or jeep from Muktinath towards Tatopani. The route passes through Jomsom and follows the Kali Gandaki Valley.
The journey usually takes around four hours, although road conditions, weather and traffic can affect the travel time.
On Day 17, you will walk to the available roadhead near Jhinu Danda and take a jeep or local vehicle towards Pokhara.
The road conditions can vary, especially during the rainy season. Your trekking company should arrange the vehicle in advance and confirm the pickup location.
On the final day, you will travel from Pokhara to Kathmandu by tourist bus, private vehicle or another arranged transport option.
The journey generally takes around 6–8 hours, but traffic and road conditions can cause delays.
The best time to do the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp is generally during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons usually offer more favourable trekking conditions, pleasant daytime temperatures in the lower regions and better opportunities to enjoy mountain views.
Spring is a good choice for trekkers who want to experience blooming forests, comfortable walking temperatures in lower regions and beautiful mountain scenery.
It is the most popular time to complete the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp. During these months, the weather gradually becomes warmer, and the lower trekking trails become more colourful with blooming rhododendron flowers.
March is relatively cold, particularly at higher elevations. Snow may still be present around Thorong La Pass, and temperatures can drop significantly at night. As the season progresses into April and May, the weather generally becomes warmer.
The Ghorepani and Poon Hill sections are especially beautiful during spring because of the blooming rhododendron forests. The forests add colour to the landscape and create excellent opportunities for photography.
At higher elevations, however, the temperature remains cold. Nights at Thorong Phedi and Annapurna Base Camp can be below freezing.
Autumn is another excellent season for this combined trek. After the monsoon rains, the skies often become clearer, and the mountain views can be particularly impressive.
September marks the transition from monsoon to autumn. Early September may still bring rainfall, especially in the lower areas. As the season progresses, the weather generally becomes more stable.
October is a popular month for trekking because of its pleasant daytime conditions and good visibility. November is also suitable, although temperatures become colder, particularly at higher elevations.
The clear skies during autumn provide excellent opportunities to enjoy views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre and other Himalayan peaks.
Winter trekking is possible in some sections of the Annapurna region, but completing the full Annapurna Circuit and Annapurna Base Camp route becomes more challenging during this season.
Temperatures drop significantly at higher elevations, and heavy snowfall can affect the trail around Thorong La Pass. The pass may become temporarily or completely impassable depending on snow conditions.
Some teahouses may also close during the colder months, reducing accommodation options along the route.
The lower areas, including Pokhara and parts of the Annapurna Sanctuary, may still be accessible. However, the high-altitude section requires careful planning and updated local information.
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to many parts of Nepal, particularly the lower hills and valleys. This can make trekking more difficult because of muddy trails, slippery stone steps, leeches and possible landslides.
Visibility can also be limited because clouds often cover the mountain views.
However, the Manang and Mustang areas receive less rainfall than many other parts of Nepal because they lie in the rain-shadow region of the Himalayas.
This does not mean that the entire Annapurna Circuit is free from monsoon problems. The route towards Tatopani, Ghorepani and the Annapurna Sanctuary can still experience heavy rainfall.
When planning an 18-day Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp, it is important to allow some additional time for unexpected situations.
Weather conditions, road closures, snowfall, altitude-related problems and transportation delays can affect the itinerary. This is particularly important when crossing Thorong La Pass because poor weather can make the crossing unsafe.
I recommend keeping 2–3 additional days beyond the planned itinerary if possible.
Here are the most useful places to allow extra time:
Day 5 is already included as an acclimatization day. However, if you experience altitude-related symptoms or need additional time to recover, you may need to stay longer.
The weather around Thorong La Pass can change quickly. Snowfall, strong winds and poor visibility may delay the crossing. Having an extra day in the Thorong Phedi area or an earlier flexible day in the itinerary can help.
Day 9 combines road travel and a long uphill trek. An extra day to stay in Tatopani makes this section more manageable and reduces the pressure of completing everything in one day.
Road conditions between Pokhara and Kathmandu can change, especially during the monsoon. If you have an international flight, avoid scheduling your departure too close to your return drive.
My recommendation: Plan for 20–21 days in total, including the 18-day itinerary and 2–3 flexible days. If you cannot extend the trip, make sure you have enough flexibility in your onward travel arrangements.
During the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp, you will stay mainly in local teahouses and mountain lodges. These accommodations are an important part of trekking in Nepal and provide a place to sleep, eat and rest after a long walking day.
Teahouses are available in most of the main settlements along the route, including Chame, Upper Pisang, Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi, Muktinath, Ghorepani and Chhomrong.
However, the facilities become more basic as you move towards higher elevations and remote mountain locations.
Most teahouses provide simple rooms with twin beds, mattresses, pillows and blankets. Toilets and bathrooms may be shared, particularly in smaller settlements and higher-altitude areas.
Some lodges offer attached bathrooms, hot showers and charging facilities, but these services may be limited or available at an additional cost.
At Annapurna Base Camp, accommodation is more basic because of the high-altitude location and limited facilities. You should not expect the same comfort available in hotels in Kathmandu or Pokhara.
During peak trekking seasons, teahouses can become busy. Booking accommodation in advance or arriving early at your destination can help you secure a room.
Food is generally available at teahouses throughout the main trekking route. You will find a mixture of traditional Nepali meals and simple international dishes.
Some common food options include:
Tea, coffee, hot chocolate and other warm drinks are also available in many lodges.
Hiring a licensed trekking guide and porters can make the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp more comfortable and organised.
A guide helps you navigate the trekking route, understand local culture and manage the daily schedule. Porters help carry the main luggage, allowing you to walk with a lighter daypack.
Since this itinerary includes high-altitude trekking, crossing Thorong La Pass and travelling through several remote mountain settlements, having experienced trekking staff is particularly important.
A professional trekking guide is responsible for helping you throughout the journey. They are familiar with the trails, local settlements, accommodation options and weather conditions.
Their responsibilities generally include:
An experienced guide can also help you make practical decisions if weather conditions change or someone in the group experiences altitude-related symptoms.
Porters carry the main luggage during the trek, allowing trekkers to focus on walking and enjoying the journey.
You usually carry only a small daypack containing essential personal items such as water, snacks, a camera, sunscreen and warm clothing.
The porter carries the larger bag containing your extra clothes and other trekking equipment.
Before hiring a porter, confirm the luggage weight limit and make sure the load is distributed fairly. Your trekking company should also provide suitable insurance, clothing and equipment for its staff.
Travel insurance is an important part of preparing for the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp. Since the journey reaches Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres and Annapurna Base Camp at 4,130 metres, you should choose a policy that specifically covers high-altitude trekking.
Ordinary travel insurance may not provide sufficient protection for activities at these elevations. Some policies have altitude limits or exclude adventure activities, so checking the details before purchasing is essential.
The Nepal Tourism Board recommends comprehensive travel insurance for trekking because emergency medical treatment and helicopter rescue can be expensive.
Before purchasing a policy, check that it includes the following:
Make sure your policy covers trekking up to at least 5,500 metres or higher. This is important because Thorong La Pass is located at 5,416 metres.
Helicopter evacuation may be necessary if you experience severe altitude sickness, an injury or another medical emergency in a remote mountain location.
Confirm that helicopter rescue is specifically covered and that the coverage limit is sufficient.
Your policy should cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalisation and other necessary medical expenses.
If you experience a serious medical emergency, you may need transportation back to your home country. Check whether medical repatriation is included.
Weather conditions, illness or unexpected circumstances may affect your travel plans. Coverage for cancellation or interruption can help reduce financial losses.
Some policies also cover lost, stolen or damaged baggage and personal equipment. Check the policy limits and exclusions.
| Location | Approximate altitude |
| Kathmandu | 1,400 m |
| Chame | 2,670 m |
| Upper Pisang | 3,300 m |
| Manang | 3,540 m |
| Yak Kharka | 4,050 m |
| Thorong Phedi | 4,450 m |
| Thorong La Pass | 5,416 m |
| Muktinath | 3,760 m |
| Ghorepani | 2,860 m |
| Poon Hill | 3,210 m |
| Tadapani | 2,630 m |
| Chhomrong | 2,170 m |
| Dovan | 2,600 m |
| Deurali | 3,230 m |
| Machhapuchhre Base Camp | 3,700 m |
| Annapurna Base Camp | 4,130 m |
| Bamboo | 2,310 m |
| Jhinu Danda | 1,780 m |
| Pokhara | 820 m |
| Day | Trekking route | Approx. distance | Walking time |
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | — | — |
| 2 | Kathmandu to Chame (drive) | — | 8–10 hours driving |
| 3 | Chame to Upper Pisang | 13–15 km | 5–6 hours |
| 4 | Upper Pisang to Manang via Ghyaru and Ngawal | 15–17 km | 6–7 hours |
| 5 | Acclimatization in Manang | Variable | 2–4 hours optional |
| 6 | Manang to Yak Kharka | 9–10 km | 3–4 hours |
| 7 | Yak Kharka to Thorong Phedi | 7–8 km | 3–4 hours |
| 8 | Thorong Phedi to Muktinath via Thorong La | 15–17 km | 7–9 hours |
| 9 | Muktinath to Tatopani (drive), then Ghorepani | Variable | 4 hours driving + 6–8 hours trekking |
| 10 | Ghorepani to Poon Hill and Tadapani | 11–13 km | 5–6 hours |
| 11 | Tadapani to Chhomrong | 10–12 km | 5–6 hours |
| 12 | Chhomrong to Dovan | 9–11 km | 5–6 hours |
| 13 | Dovan to Deurali | 7–9 km | 4–5 hours |
| 14 | Deurali to Annapurna Base Camp via MBC | 7–9 km | 4–6 hours |
| 15 | Annapurna Base Camp to Bamboo | 14–16 km | 6–8 hours |
| 16 | Bamboo to Jhinu Danda | 9–11 km | 5–6 hours |
| 17 | Jhinu Danda to Pokhara (drive) | Variable | Depends on road conditions |
| 18 | Pokhara to Kathmandu (drive) | — | 6–8 hours driving |
Day 9 is a particularly long combined travel and trekking day. Its walking distance and duration should be confirmed with the trekking company. The table is intended as a planning guide, not a guaranteed daily schedule.
The total walking distance for this combined itinerary is approximately 110–130 km, depending on the exact trails and transport arrangements.
Before booking the Annapurna Circuit Trek with Annapurna Base Camp, it is important to understand what is included in your trekking package.
The inclusions may differ between trekking companies depending on the package price, accommodation standard, transportation arrangements and services provided.
A standard guided package generally includes the following services.
The following expenses are commonly excluded from standard trekking packages:
The combined trek takes 18 days according to the planned itinerary. It includes the Annapurna Circuit, Thorong La Pass, Muktinath, Poon Hill and Annapurna Base Camp. However, adding 2–3 contingency days is recommended to allow flexibility for weather, transportation and altitude-related delays.
The highest point of this combined trek is Thorong La Pass at 5,416 metres. Annapurna Base Camp is located at approximately 4,130 metres, making Thorong La Pass the highest elevation reached during the journey.
Yes, it is a challenging trek because of the high altitude, long walking days, steep trails and changing weather conditions. The crossing of Thorong La Pass is particularly demanding. Good physical fitness, proper acclimatization and an experienced guide are important.
Beginners can complete this trek if they have good physical preparation, enough time and proper guidance. Previous high-altitude trekking experience is helpful but not essential. However, beginners should understand that the route is physically demanding and requires preparation before departure.
October and November are popular months because of generally clear skies and favourable trekking conditions. March, April and May are also excellent options, especially for those who want to experience blooming rhododendron forests around Ghorepani.
Yes. Under the Nepal Tourism Board’s revised TIMS provisions, the Annapurna Circuit and Poon Hill–ABC routes require a licensed trekking guide and an agency-issued TIMS card. You should arrange the necessary services through a registered trekking agency.
The main permits are the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and TIMS card, according to the current requirements. Your trekking agency can help arrange the necessary documentation before the trek.
Altitude sickness can affect trekkers as they move above 2,500–3,000 metres. The risk increases as you gain elevation, particularly around Manang, Yak Kharka, Thorong Phedi and Thorong La Pass. Proper acclimatization and gradual ascent help reduce the risk.
Yes. The itinerary includes one acclimatization day in Manang at approximately 3,540 metres. This allows your body to adjust to the higher elevation before continuing towards Yak Kharka and Thorong Phedi.
You will stay mainly in local teahouses and mountain lodges. Most provide basic rooms with beds, mattresses and blankets. Bathroom facilities may be shared, and hot showers, Wi-Fi and charging services may cost extra.
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